I read this story at Paradise Lost last year, where it was bravely left in the hands of whoever came into the room functioning as Con Suite.
People before me had given great critique comments and an informal critique session was underway as I read it, so I didn't add anything. And though it was a little rough, it had a great "Shiny Idea" and a light touch on the emotional resonance--both of which I really enjoyed.
It is no longer rough, and it's even more shiny, now up at Lightspeed!
The Seven Samovars